[mou] Nesting Ospreys at Black Dog Lake

[drewbec@aol.com]

Last evening I saw an Osprey on the west lake near the power plant, and 
pulled my vehicle over to observe the bird. It flew back towards the 
lake and I saw that it had a bright orange fish in its talons, then 
suddenly I noticed a second Osprey in the air approaching the first 
bird. Together they flew to the top of one of the electrical towers in 
the middle of the lake, where a large pile of sticks was being 
assembled, apparently a new nest! They playfully sparred, went through 
the motions of "foreplay", exchanged the fish, and the female flew back 
close to the road for a meal.

Checking the pamphlet of County Nesting records that was mailed to MOU 
members a few years ago, there are no previous nesting records for 
Osprey in Dakota County. This is an easily visible nest, and it will be 
interesting to follow in the days and weeks ahead. If you're in the 
area, check it out. Enjoy!

Drew Smith
Eagan, Dakota County